Powell River 5 Vernon 3

Scoring

1st Period

1:27 PR Curtis McCarrick (3) ASST: Gavin Rauser (3)
4:52 PR Cam Donaldson (4) ASST: Tristan Mullin (5), Kyle Betts (5)
19:45 PR Johan Steen (1) ASST: Jonny Evans (7) (PP)

2nd Period

16:21 VER Tyler Maser (1) ASST: Derek Osik (2), Shane Kelly (1)
18:28 VER Jagger Williamson (3) ASST: None (SH)
18:57 PR Cam Donaldson (5) ASST: Jack Long (3), Tristan Mullin (6) (PP)
19:33 PR Gavin Rauser (2) ASST: Curtis McCarrick (2)

3rd Period

12:51 VER Ryan Brushett (2) ASST: Christian Cakebread (4), Michael Ufberg (5)

Shots were 34-34 Brian Wilson made 31 saves in the win, while Cole Demers made 18 saves in the loss.

BCHL Boxscore-Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7269

Powell River Kings Game recap,

http://www.powellriverkings.com/kings-down-vernon-5-3-to-win-fifth-straight

Vernon Vipers Game recap,

http://www.vipers.bc.ca/vipers-fall-5-3-to-powell-river

Game Preview: Vernon @ Powell River:

Vernon (4-2-0-0) @ Powell River (4-4-0-0) 7:30pm

Tonight is the first of two regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Powell River Kings. The two teams split the season series last year 1-1

Last Game:

Saturday, September 24 Wenatchee defeated Vernon 6-3
Wednesday, September 28 Powell River defeated Nanaimo 7-1

Next Game:

Saturday, October 1st Vernon @ Alberni Valley
Saturday, October 1st Victoria @ Powell River

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 13-9-0-1 vs Powell River

Since the 2003-04 regular season Powell River has outscored Vernon 73-66

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 9-2-0-0 at home vs Powell River

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 4-9-0-0 in Powell River

The Vipers last regular season win in Powell River was a 4-3 victory on Friday, December 12th 2014

The Kings last regular season win at home vs Vernon was a 3-0 victory on Friday, October 2nd 2015

The Vipers last regular season win at home vs Powell River was a 5-3 victory on Sunday, December 20th 2015

The Kings last regular season win in Vernon was a 7-2 victory on Saturday, January 12th 2013

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vernon Vipers make their first and only regular season visit to the Hap Parker Arena are coming off a 6-3 loss Saturday to the Wenatchee Wild at the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack. Vernon has won two of their last three games in Powell River. Tonight is the fourth game of a current six game road trip, the Vipers longest this season. Vernon comes into tonight's game with a 2-2 record away from home are facing a team from either the Island or Mainland Division for a third straight game. The Vipers sit tied in points with West Kelowna for 2nd place in the Interior Division. Newly acquired defenceman Cooper Watson is suppose to make his Viper debut tonight.

Vernon Vipers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=21

Steven Jandric (5-3-8) leads the team lead in goals with five, while Steven Jandric (5-3-8), Jimmy Lambert (2-6-8) & Niko Karamanis (3-5-8) share the team lead in points with eight each.

Vernon Vipers 2016-17 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 6
Wins: 4
Losses: 2
Ties: 0
Overtime Wins: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 3-0-0-0
Road Record: 1-2-0-0
Overtime Record: 0-0
Record vs Interior Division: 2-1-0-0
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 2-1-0-0
When the Vipers score first: 3-0-0-0
When the opponents score first: 1-2-0-0
Leading after the 1st period: 3-0-0-0
Tied after the 1st period: 0-1-0-0
Trailing after the 1st period: 1-1-0-0
Leading after the 2nd period: 2-0-0-0
Tied after the 2nd period: 1-0-0-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 1-2-0-0
Out shooting opponents: 4-0-0-0
Out shot by opponents: 0-2-0-0
One goal games: 0-0-0-0
Goals for: 25
Goals against: 19
Standings: 2nd Place (Interior Division) Tied in points with West Kelowna
Win-loss streak: One game losing streak
Longest winning streak: Three game winning streak
Longest losing streak: One game losing streak

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Stapley (99)
Christian Cakebread (97)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)

Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:

Charley Michalowski (96)
Odeen Tufto (97)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Callum Volpe (98)
Liam Finlay (97)
Joe Sacco (96)
Ben Butcher (95)
Brendan Barry (97)
Darren Rizzolo (98)
Latrell Charleson (95)
Bo Pellah (95)
Mac Ferner (95)
Andrew Shortridge (95)

Vernon's home record vs Powell River last year:

1-0-0-0

Vernon's road record vs Powell River last year:

0-1-0-0

Vernon's scoring leaders vs Powell River last year:

Colton McCarthy (2-0-2)
Jagger Williamson (1-1-2)
Steven Jandric (0-2-2)
Hunter Zandee (1-1-2)
Mitchell Oliver (0-1-1)
Latrell Charleson (0-1-1)
Brett Stapley (0-1-1)
Bo Pellah (0-1-1)
Christian Cakebread (1-0-1)
Joe Sacco (0-1-1)

Andrew Shortridge (1-1 Record)

Vernon has the leagues 3rd best powerplay

The Vipers have the leagues 4th best penalty kill

Let's take a look at the Powell River Kings:

The Powell River Kings are coming off a 7-1 victory over the visiting Nanaimo Clippers Wednesday face the Vipers twice this season. The Kings will travel to Vernon January 21st in the final meeting of the season. These two teams split the season series last year with the Kings winning at home and losing in Vernon. The Kings have eleven players returning from last season, started the season losing their first four games, have now rebounded winning four straight to improve to 4-4 on the season. Powell River has played five of their first eight games away from home, play their next two games on home ice before hitting the road for a six game road trip. The Kings sit 3rd in the Island Division two points up on last place Nanaimo, one point up on Alberni Valley are one point back of 2nd place Cowichan. Former Vipers defenceman Callum Volpe will make his Kings debut tonight vs his former team.

Powell River Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=8

Carter Turnbull (7-4-11) leads the team in goals with seven & in points with eleven.

Callum Volpe played 45 games with the Vipers last season and this year before being released September 22nd 2016

Powell River Kings 2016-17 regular season stats:

Games Played: 8
Wins: 4
Losses: 4
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 3-1-0-0
Road Record: 1-3-0-0
Goals for: 26
Goals against: 23
Standings: 3rd Place (Island Division)
Streak: Four game winning streak

Powell River Kings Returning Players:

Liam Lawson (96)
Gavin Rauser (97)
Carter Turnbull (98)
Curtis McCarrick (96)
Jonny Evans (97)
Kyle Betts (97)
Tristin Mullin (96)
Brandon Kennedy (97)
Jack Long (99)
Andy Stevens (98)
Jake Kohlhauser (96)

Powell River Kings departed and traded players from last years team:

Hunter Findlater (97)
Austin Kamer (96)
Chris Protopoulos (96)
Mitchell Hawes (96)
Nick Halagian (95)
Jeremy Leipsic (97)
Adam Brubacher (95)
Rylan Ball (95)
Nick Nonis (95)
Jeremy Leclerc (95)
Jeff Smith (95)

Powell River's home record vs Vernon last year:

1-0-0-0

Powell River's road record vs Vernon last year:

0-1-0-0

Powell River Kings scoring leaders vs Vernon last year:

Kyle Betts (2-0-2)
Nick Halagian (0-2-2)
Jeremy Leipsic (0-2-2)
Tristan Mullin (0-2-2)
Austin Kamer (0-1-1)
Nick Nonis (0-1-1)
Andy Stevens (1-0-1)
Gavin Rauser (1-0-1)
Jonny Evans (1-0-1)
Chris Protopoulos (0-1-1)
Mitchell Hawes (0-1-1)
Jeremy Leclerc (1-0-1)

Jeff Smith (1-1 Record)

Powell River has the leagues 13th best powerplay:

The Kings have the leagues 13th best penalty kill

Vipers Trade Rizzolo To Dawgs:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers trade Rizzolo to Dawgs
              
by  Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Sep 30, 2016

The Vernon Vipers have traded defenceman Darren Rizzolo to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs in exchange for future considerations.

Head coach and director of hockey operations Mark Ferner was forced to make a move as second-year forward Brett Stapley is set to come off the injured reserve list.

Rizzolo is an 18-year-old Mission product who compiled three goals and 10 points in 45 games last year with the Snakes. He was acquired in a trade with the Chilliwack Chiefs last year that saw forward Linden Hora of Kelowna sent to the Fraser Valley. Rizzolo, a former speed skater, is committed to the NCAA Northeastern Huskies.

"We had zero issues with Darren," said Ferner. "It was him or one of the older kids that had to go. It breaks your heart trading such a good kid. He asked me: 'What did I do wrong?' I told him he did everything we asked him to; we just had too many defencemen with the addition of Cooper Watson. We sent Darren to a good program. Kevin Willison is a good coach and Darren will get to play more and have success."

Stapley, a prize recruit at 16 last year, has been on IR for a month with an upper-body injury. Forward Nick Rasovic remains on IR with a lacerated kidney.

The move now leaves the Vernon active roster at 22 as they begin a three-game road trip Friday night in Powell River against the Kings. The Vipers still have room for one 20-year-old and one import.

Ferner may stick with the hottest goaltender rather than rotate the impressive 17-year-old tandem of Ty Taylor and Cole Demers.

"I'm going to have a talk with them. They've both played three games so the real competition starts now."

The Vipers face the Bulldogs Saturday night in Port Alberni and then battle the Clippers in a Sunday matinee in Nanaimo. Vernon entertains the Surrey Eagles in their next home tilt, Friday, Oct. 7.

Vernon-Alberni Valley Trade:

This is on the Vipers twitter account:

The Vipers have traded Defenceman Darren Rizzolo to the AV Bulldogs in exchange for future considerations.  Rasovic on IR. Roster at 23

Darren Rizzolo's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=247472

This is posted on the Morning Star website:

Vipers trade Rizzolo to Dawgs

Sep 29, 2016

The Vernon Vipers have traded defenceman Darren Rizzolo to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs in exchange for future considerations.

Head coach and director of hockey operations Mark Ferner was forced to make a move as second-year forward Brett Stapley is set to come off the injured reserve list.

Rizzolo is an 18-year-old Mission product who compiled three goals and 10 points in 45 games last year with the Snakes.

The move now leaves the Vernon roster at 22 as they begin a three-game road trip Friday night in Powell River against the Kings. The Vipers still have room for one 20-year-old and one import.

The Vipers face the Bulldogs Saturday night in Port Alberni and then battle the Clippers in a Sunday matinee in Nanaimo. Vernon entertains the Surrey Eagles in their next home tilt, Friday, Oct. 7.

Ex Viper Gill Makes NHL Debut With Stanley Cup Champion Penguins:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Sahir Gill made his NHL pre-season
debut Wednesday with the defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins. Gill wearing #52 saw 8:33 of ice time went pointless in the Penguins 2-0 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

Boxscore,

https://www.nhl.com/gamecenter/pit-vs-chi/2016/09/28/2016010028#game=2016010028,game_state=final,game_tab=boxscore

Game Recap,

https://www.nhl.com/gamecenter/pit-vs-chi/2016/09/28/2016010028#game=2016010028,game_state=final,game_tab=wrap

Takeaways from Penguins-Blackhawks game,

https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/training-camp-takeaways-preseason-game-2/c-282230866

Gill was invited to the Penguins Training camp has spent the past three seasons in the American Hockey League & East Coast Hockey League. Gill left Boston University after three seasons to sign with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers in 2013. Gill attended the Montreal Canadians Training Camp in 2014 before being released played last season with the AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins & the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. In 21 games with the Penguins Gill recorded (5-goals-9-assists-14-points) & in 24 games with the Nailers Gill picked up (3-goals-15-assists-18-points).

Gill played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2008-2010). Gill left the Vipers in July 2009 for the United States Hockey League (USHL) Chicago Steel but after playing in 26 games returned to Vernon in mid January 2010 to finish his Junior hockey career with the Vipers. In 71 regular season games with the Vipers Gill collected (21-goals-30-assists-42-points).

Sahir Gill's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38017

Comets Re-Sign Viper Alumni Zalewski:

The American Hockey League (AHL) Utica Comets have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Zalewski.

Zalewski will be entering his third season with the Comets. Last season in 58 games with Utica Zalewski picked up (16-goals-17-assists-33-points). Zalewski left his third year at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) signing with the Vancouver Canucks March 17th 2014. Zalewski skated in his first NHL practice with the Canucks March 21, 2014 before making his NHL debut on Saturday April 12 2014 in a 5-2 loss in Edmonton. Zalewski picked up his first career NHL point (assist) in a 5-1 win over the visiting Calgary Flames the following night.

Zalewski played two season's in Vernon (2010-2012) In 106 regular season games with the Vipers Zalewski collected (50-goals-54-assists-104-points).

Mike Zalewski's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=60363

This is posted on the Comets website:

Zalewski and Bachman Sign Extensions

Jul 13, 2016

Vancouver Canucks General Manager Jim Benning announced today that the Canucks have signed forward Mike Zalewski and goaltender Richard Bachman each to a one-year, two-way contract extension.

Zalewski, 23, appeared in 58 games for the AHL Utica Comets this past season where he ranked tied for fifth in points (33) and tied for third in goals (16). He also skated in three games for Vancouver in 2015.16, collecting an assist (0-1-1) along with two penalty minutes. In 2014.15, Zalewski collected 12 points (3-9-12) and 18 penalty minutes in 55 games played with the Comets. He made his NHL debut on April 12, 2014 at Edmonton and registered his first NHL point (assist) the following night versus Calgary.

Prior to making his professional debut in 2014, the 6-2, 205-pound forward spent two seasons with the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) Engineers. In 71 career NCAA games, Zalewski compiled 47 points (21-26-47) and 75 penalty minutes.

The New Hartford, New York, native was signed by Vancouver as a free agent on March 14, 2014.

Bachman, 28, spent the 2015-16 season with the Utica Comets, posting a record of 17-12-5 and a goals against average of 2.75. He also made his debut with the Canucks last season, registering a win on October 30 at Arizona. The 5'10", 176 pound goaltender has played in 43 career NHL games, amassing a record of 18-14-2, 2.93 goals against average and save percentage of .904.

On the international stage, the Salt Lake City, Utah native represented the United State at the 2012 IIHF World Hockey Championship, earning a win in his only start. Prior to his professional career, Bachman played two seasons at Colorado College. He was named WCHA Player and Rookie of the Year, NCAA Rookie of the Year and NCAA West First Team All-American with a record of 25-9-1, four shutouts, and program-record GAA (1.85) and save percentage (.931).

Bachman was signed by Vancouver as a free agent on July 1, 2015. He was originally selected by Dallas in the fourth round, 120th overall, at the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Watson Primed For Viper Duty:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Watson primed for Vernon Viper duty

by  Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Sep 28, 2016

They couldn’t find his luggage in Vancouver after a long flight from Minneapolis. Then there were some delays at customs.

Despite all the chaos, Cooper Watson used the word fun to describe his weary arrival in Canada early Friday morning.

The newest defenceman and 20-year-old appears to have the no-whine attitude required to fit in with the B.C. Hockey League Vernon Vipers. He makes his debut Friday night in Powell River versus the Kings.

“I literally knew nothing about the Vipers and I didn’t know anything about the league,” said Watson, prior to Tuesday’s practice. “People said the league is a little different than the USHL and I thought I may get on with another USHL team, but when that didn’t happen, this was the next best spot.”

A product of Appleton, Wisc., where Watson loves fishing with his father and three brothers, the big d-man spent the last two years with the Madison Capitols of the USHL.

“I feel coming here will further develop me as a complete player. Mark (Viper head coach Ferner) was an NHL defenceman so I know he’s going to be a big help. I’m known as a stay-at-home guy so I’d like to explore my offensive side while here.”

His brother, Carver, recently left the Tri-City Storm of the USHL for the BCHL Chilliwack Chiefs, while brother Cliff is a senior captain of the NCAA Division 1 Michigan Tech Huskies. Cooper and fellow Viper Jagger Williamson have committed to the Huskies.

“I don’t know my billets’ names or even what part of town I’m living in; it’s all too new,” chuckled Watson, a cycling addict who is a nasty 6-foot-3, 175-pounder.

He rang up four goals, 13 points and 176 penalty minutes in two seasons with Madison.

Ferner liked what he was in Watson at practice Monday at Kal Tire Place. The Vipers now move to Priest Valley Arena since their dressing room is being groomed for the Edmonton Oilers for this weekend’s Kraft Hockeyville.

“He’s fine, he’s a big body and he plays hard. I’m not sure who we’ll pair him up with yet. We’ll wait and see.”

Ferner, meanwhile, figured the Wenatchee Wild would give his club a true and tough test in the fifth BCHL Bauer Showcase in Chilliwack.

Ferner was bang on as the Wild – the only team in the BCHL without a regulation loss – brushed back the Snakes 6-3 Saturday night at Prospera Centre.

Vernon (4-2) got into penalty trouble and killed seven of nine Wenatchee powerplays. Viper goalie Cole Demers was outstanding in the period, stopping 12 shots.

“Five-on-five, we were fine,” said Ferner. “Half the game was played on special teams and we weren’t being dirty or malicious. It was frustrating for the players.”

Wenatchee took an early penalty in the second and Steven Jandric poked in a loose puck for his fifth goal.

the season to make it 2-1. D-man Carter Stephenson and Niko Karamanis earned assists.

The Wild converted shortly after a powerplay expired as Dakota Raabe knocked a puck out of mid-air to make it 3-1. Slava Demin delivered a seeing-eye wrister through a maze of bodies to give Wenatchee a 4-1 lead with the man advantage.

The Vipers cut the deficit to 4-3 thanks to a power play goal from Christian Cakebread at 10:59, and Shane Kelly unleashed another seeing-eye shot from the right wing boards at 14:54 that eluded Wild goalie Anthony Yamnitsky, and suddenly despite a dominating performance, the Wild lead was trimmed to one. It was Kelly’s first BCHL snipe.

Stephenson and d-man Chris Jandric set up Cakebread, while Karamanis and Jimmy Lambert pocketed helpers on Kelly’s tally.

The Wild responded just 17 seconds later with a dagger from Burston.

Austin Chavez fired a crisp head-man pass to Matthew Baker, who tossed a quick backhand dish to Dakota Raabe. Raabe, who has been on fire with a goal in four straight games, fired from the right wing and the rebound was collected and buried by Burston.

The Vipers called a timeout late in the period and pulled their Demers for a sixth attacker, but Charlie Combs sniffed the puck out and picked off a cross blue-line pass and raced down to deposit the puck in the abandoned net.

The Wild outshot Vernon 46-21, and Yamnitsky picked up his second win of the year. Demers was stellar with 40 saves. Vernon clicked twice on the power play.

Harris leads the BCHL with 12 points in five games.

Three stars were: 1. Burston. 2. Raabe. 3. Stephenson.

The Vipers-Kings game can be heard  at 7:15 p.m. Friday on 107.5 KissFM. Vernon visits the Alberni Valley Bulldogs Saturday night and take on the Clippers in a Sunday matinee in Nanaimo.

The Penticton Vees lead the Interior at 5-1, followed by the defending national champion West Kelowna Warriors at 4-1.

Devils Re-Sign Former Vernon Viper Forward Pelley:

The American Hockey League (AHL) Albany Devils have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Rod Pelley. 

Pelley will be entering his fourth season with the Devils. After four years at Ohio State University Pelley signed a two year entry-level contract with the New Jersey Devils. Pelley would spend (2006-2011) with the New Jersey Devils and Lowell Devils before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks in 2011. Pelley has spent the past three seasons in the American Hockey League with the Albany Devils, has played five seasons in the NHL with New Jersey & Anaheim. In 65 games last season with the Devils Pelley collected (8-goals-5-assists-13-points). Pelley will enter this season his fourth season as captain with Albany.

Pelley played parts of one season in Vernon (2001-2002) On January 10th 2001 the Vipers traded Mark Nelson & Tyler Scofield to Prince George for Josh Ciocco, Rod Pelley & Dan Rossi. Pelley played in 19 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (10-goals-8-assists-18-points).

Rod Pelley's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=11019

This is posted on the Devils Blog:

A-Devils Re-Sign Rod Pelley

Wednesday, July 06, 2016

Published in Blog, Transactions

ALBANY, NY – The Albany Devils have signed forward Rod Pelley to a one-year American Hockey League contract. The announcement was made by Albany Devils General Manager Tom Fitzgerald.

Pelley, who just completed his 10th professional season, has served as the Devils’ captain for the last three seasons. Under his leadership, Albany has produced a 123-71-18-16 record, earning a Calder Cup Playoff berth during the 2013-14 and 2015-16 seasons. The 31-year-old is a veteran of 676 professional games, including 420 in the AHL and 256 in the NHL. His career totals include 65 goals and 61 helpers for 126 points in the AHL and nine tallies and 20 assists in the NHL.

Pelley’s career has included two stints with the Devils’ organization. He split time between the Lowell Devils and New Jersey Devils between 2006-07 and 2011-12. After spending the remainder of the 2011-12 season and all of 2012-13 with the Anaheim Ducks organization, he signed as a free agent with the Devils prior to the 2013-14 campaign.

Before turning pro, Pelley spent four seasons with Ohio State (CCHA), posting 47 goals and 41 assists for 88 points in 165 games. He was a member of the 2004 CCHA Championship team, earning All-Tournament honors. He signed as a free agent with New Jersey after his senior year and made his professional debut with Lowell on Oct. 7, 2006. His NHL debut came on Feb. 1, 2007.

The 6’0”, 205-lb., left-shooting forward was born Sept. 1, 1984 in Kitimat, BC.

Hockeytube Highlight – #23 Jimmy Lambert

This is posted on the Hockeytube.net website:

Hockeytube Highlight – #23 Jimmy Lambert

Posted by HockeyTube on Sep 22nd, 2016

During the Vernon Vipers season opener September 9th 2016, Vernon Viper forward #23 Jimmy Lambert scores a highlight goal against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The play develops back in the Vipers zone with a break out pass to Lambert on the right side who then makes a couple of awesome moves to beat a couple of Silverback defenders and undresses the goal to give his team a 5-3 win. It was one of a number highlight goals scored that weekend including teammate Jagger Williamson’s nationally televised goal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8pDku3RJHE

Stephenson Recieves Honourable Mention For Player Of The Week:

Vernon Vipers defenceman Carter Stephenson earns honourable mention for BCHL Player of the Week.

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Foreman's Showing at Showcase Earns POW

September 26, 2016

West Kelowna Warriors forward Quin Foreman has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending Sept. 25, the league announced Monday.

Foreman led all scorers at the fifth Bauer BCHL Showcase with five goals, including a hat trick. The Dartmouth College recruit had a hat trick, including the game-winner, in a 5-2 win over Chilliwack where he was named 1st Star. He added two more goals and another 1st Star nod in a 5-3 win over Coquitlam.

A 6-foot-3, 195-pound native of Norwood, Mass., Foreman now has 10 points in five games and leads the BCHL with seven goals on the season.

Honourable mentions this week:

Vernon Vipers D Carter Stephenson: 2G, 2A, 2nd Star, 3rd Star

Prince George Spruce Kings F Tanner Campbell: 4A, 1st Star

Cowichan Capitals G Adam Marcoux: W, 54 saves/56 shots, .964 sv%, 2.00 GAA, 1st Star

Powell River Kings F Ted McGeen: 2G, GWG, 1st Star

Salmon Arm Silverbacks F Elijiah Barriga: 2G, 4A, two 2nd Stars

Wenatchee Wild F Dakota Raabe: 2G, 2A, 2nd Star

Beast Re-Sign Ex Viper Marino:

The East Coast Hockey League Brampton Beast have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino.

Marino started last season with the Beast, picked up (13-goals-28-assists-41-points) in 40 games before signing a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Uitca Comets January 12th 2016. Marino was released February 10th 2016 after scoring once in eight games with Utica before signing with the Comets for a second time February 26 2016. In 30 games with the Comets Marino collected (4-goals-0-assists-4-points). Marino recently signed with the HC Mikron Nové Zámky or known as in English (HC New Locks) on May 22nd 2016 but never played a single game.  HC New Locks is a Slovak ice hockey club in New Zámky , that plays in the Tipsport League.

After four years with Bemidji State University Marino has spent the past seven seasons playing in five different leagues (IHL, CHL, ECHL, AHL & EBEL) with six different teams (Quad City, Fort Wayne, Norfolk, Szekesfehervar, Brampton & Utica).
Marino played two games with the 2002-2003 Vernon Vipers.

Brandon Marino's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=39227

This is posted on the Beast website:

Captain and Former Scoring Champion Brandon Marino Returns to Beast

06/29/2016

BRAMPTON, ONTARIO – The Brampton Beast, ECHL affiliate of the St. John’s IceCaps and Montreal Canadiens, announce today that the club has re-signed 2015-16 leading scorer Brandon Marino for the 2016-17 season.

Beast sign scoring champion Brandon Marino,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NElrlC64A24

Marino, 30, is a native of Riverside, California and was a tour-de-force with the Beast throughout his 40 games played with the club last season.

In 2015-16, Marino was a point-per-game player, recording 13 goals and 28 assists while chipping in with 22 penalty minutes. His 41 points led the club, despite playing in 16 fewer games than the next highest-scoring teammate.

Marino, who took over as the captain of the Beast when Cal Wild retired early in the season, has been an explosive, high-scoring forward throughout his ECHL career and is looking to continue that trend with the Beast this season. His ECHL numbers speak for themselves. In 183 career ECHL contests, the sniper has recorded a combined 63 goals and 140 assists shared between the Beast and the Fort Wayne Komets.

A message to Best fans from Brandon Marino,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3mYAIKZneQ

His goal-scoring prowess was on full display during the 2013-14 season, when he registered 30 goals and 58 assists for 88 points, enough points to earn him an ECHL scoring title during his tenure with the Komets.

Marino believes his best days are ahead of him with the Beast this season and he is excited to get back to the Powerade Centre in front of the hometown fans in Brampton.

“This organization treats you well,” Marino said. “They do things the right way and I can see that the fan base is growing and we’re starting to get more support.”

Marino shared the 2015-16 season between the Beast and the American Hockey League’s Utica Comets, spending a career-high 34 regular season games in the AHL, during which he recorded four goals and 16 penalty minutes.

While Marino certainly admits he learned a lot during the 2015-16 campaign, he believes he is an improved version of the same player.

“Honestly, I don’t think I am a different player,” Marino said. “I have been lucky enough to produce in terms of points, but I consider myself a hard worker and I’m looking forward to being a part of a playoff team this season in Brampton.”

Beast Head Coach Colin Chaulk is no stranger to Brandon Marino. The pair suited up together as teammates on the Fort Wayne Komets and got to know each other a step further last season with Chaulk acting as Marino’s Head Coach.  Chaulk is excited to have a player of Marino’s calibre back in the mix for this upcoming season.

“Brandon has led the ECHL in scoring,” Chaulk said. “From the outside looking in, you know he has talent. What people don’t know is that Brandon is also one of our hardest working players. He says and does the right things and not just on the ice. It’s definitely a big step in the right direction for our organization to get a player like Brandon back.”

Vipers-Wild Highlight's:

Here are the game highlight's from Prospera Centre in Chilliwack at the BCHL Showcase Saturday. The Wenatchee Wild defeated the Vernon Vipers 6-3.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mO16OVgZBs

Vipers Sharing Penthouse:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers sharing penthouse
           
by Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Sep 25, 2016

The Vernon Vipers are showing early signs of being a contender in the B.C. Hockey League’s Interior Conference.

The Snakes stopped the Nanaimo Clippers 6-3 in a Bauer Showcase Friday matinee at Prospera Centre in Chilliwack. Vernon finished the four-day extravaganza against the Wenatchee Wild Saturday night.

Winger Steven Jandric supplied 2+1, while rookie defenceman Carter Stephenson also scored twice for the Vipers (4-1) to earn first star. Stephenson was second star.

“They (Nanaimo) were a little chippy and our powerplay took advantage (twice),” said Viper head coach Mark Ferner. “We used three lines on the powerplay and the guys are still learning the 1-3-1.”

Stephenson and Jandric recorded power play snipes as Vernon enjoyed period leads of 2-1 and 5-3.

Newcomer Ryan Brushett, an 18-year-old Quebec product, and Philadelphia rookie d-man Michael Ufberg provided the other Viper goals in front of red-hot rookie Ty Taylor. Vernon outshot Nanaimo 36-33.

“The new guy (Brushett) is pretty smart and pretty slick on the puck; he distributed it real well,” said Ferner. “The goal he scored was real nice. He got the puck in traffic and beat a couple of guys.”

Brushett bagged two goals and 10 points with the USHL Sioux Falls Stampede and Bloomington Thunder last season. The Verdun native has committed to the NCAA Providence Friars.

Vernon product Matt Kowalski, Ben Solin and third star Adam Pilotte replied for Nanaimo.

Kowalski, an Okanagan Rocket grad, tipped a shot near post by Taylor Karel midway through the second period, narrowing Vernon’s lead to 4-2.

“They simply outworked us,” said Kowalski. “We just have to work harder and be smarter and be better as a team. Vernon has a pretty smart group of guys and they definitely have some physical forwards. They like to hit.”

Kowalski played on a few different lines as head coach Mike Vandekamp went with 11 forwards.

Centre Niko Karamanis chipped in with two assists for the Snakes. The Jandric-Karamanis-Jimmy Lambert combined for six points.

Captain Riley Brandt took the Fortis Energy Player of the Game. The Vipers went to Chilliwack’s finest Italian restaurant – Bozzini’s – for a post-game dinner.

Taylor improved to 3-0, while Austin Roden suffered the loss.

Vernon welcomed 20-year-old bruising Madison, Wisc. native Cooper Watson to their hotel Saturday night. He was not expected to play versus Wenatchee.

Watson, a towering big higger,  spent the last two seasons with the Madison Capitols of the USHL. He has a scholarship to the Michigan Tech Huskies for next year. Viper alternate captain Jagger
Williamson has committed to the same Division 1 school, where Watson’s brother, Cliff, is captain.

“Wenatchee will be our toughest test so far,” said Ferner. “They’re quick and they come at you fast. They were unfortunate not to beat Powell River; they outshot them 50-24 and lost 5-4 in overtime.”

Ontario product Kyle Betts, who has a schollie with Cornell Big Red, supplied 2+1 for the Kings.

All 17 teams will play twice at the fifth Showcase, attended by more than 75 NCAA, CIS and NHL scouts.

The defending BCHL champion Penticton Vees shaded the Prince George Spruce Kings 3-2 Friday to join the 2016 national champion West Kelowna Warriors and Vipers atop the Interior table.

Okanagan Rocket grad Linden Hora netted the winner on a powerplay at 13:29 of the first period as the Chilliwack Chiefs shut down the Alberni Valley Bulldogs 4-0 Friday.

The Cowichan Valley Capitals brushed off the Merritt Centennials 4-2 Friday afternoon. Vernon’s Brett Jewell, captain of the Cents, had one goal.

Cowichan clipped the Surrey Eagles 3-2, while the Prince George Spruce Kings mauled Merritt 7-2 in other Thursday action. Jewell scored once for Merritt.

SNAKEBITES: Forwards Nick Rasovic and Brett Stapley are on Vernon’s injured reserve list...The Vipers visit Powell River Friday night, move over to Port Alberni Saturday and finish the weekend Sunday afternoon in Nanaimo...Next home game is Friday, Oct. 7 against Surrey...F Sahir Gill, who helped the Vipers win back-to-back Royal Bank Cups n 2009-10, is attending the Pittsburgh Penguins training camp. The Terrace native rang up 14 points in 21 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pens of the American League last season. The speedy Gill played university hockey for the Boston Terriers...Jared Turcotte’s goal had th Salmon Arm Silverbacks leading the Clippers 1-0 early in a Saturday morning tilt.

BCHL Showcase: Wenatchee 6 Vernon 3

Scoring

1st Period

0:35 WEN Colin Burston (1) ASST: Matthew Baker (3), Dakota Raabe (1)
12:46 WEN Matthew Baker (3) ASST: Colin Burston (5), Brendan Harris (9) (PP)

2nd Period

2:06 VER Steven Jandric (5) ASST: Carter Stephenson (3), Niko Karamanis (4) (PP)
7:27 WEN Dakota Raabe (4) ASST: Jasper Weatherby (2), Slava Demin (2)
14:31 WEN Slava Demin (3) ASST: Troy Conzo (6), Alex Bates (3) (PP)

3rd Period

10:59 VER Christian Cakebread (1) ASST: Carter Stephenson (4), Chris Jandric (4) (PP)
14:54 VER Shane Kelly (1) ASST: Niko Karamanis (5), Jimmy Lambert (6)
15:17 WEN Colin Burston (2) ASST: Matthew Baker (4), Dakota Raabe (2)
19:57 WEN Charlie Combs (6) ASST: None (EN)

Wenatchee outshot Vernon 46-21 Anthony Yamnitsky made 18 saves in the win, while Cole Demers made 40 saves in the loss.

BCHL Boxscore-Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7260

Wenatchee Wild Game recap,

http://www.wenatcheewildhockey.com/wild-fend-off-viper-rally-in-6-3-win

Vernon Vipers Game recap,

http://www.vipers.bc.ca/vipers-split-games-at-showcase

Game Preview: BCHL Showcase: Vernon vs Wenatchee:

Vernon (4-1-0-0) @ Wenatchee (3-0-1-0) 7:30pm

Tonight is the first of three regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Wenatchee Wild. The Wild won the season series last year 2-1

Last Game:

Friday, September 23 Vernon defeated Nanaimo 6-3
Friday, September 23 Powell River defeated Wenatchee 5-4 Overtime

Next Game:

Friday, September 30 Vernon @ Powell River
Friday, September 30 Langley @ Wenatchee

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon is 4-2-1-2 at the Showcase

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon as the home team is 2-0-1-2 at the Showcase

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon as the road team is 2-1-0-1 at the Showcase

Since the 2015-16 regular season Vernon is 1-2-0-0 vs Wenatchee

Since the 2015-16 regular season Vernon is 0-1-0-0 at home vs Wenatchee

Since the 2015-16 regular season Vernon is 1-0-0-0 in Wenatchee

Since the 2015-16 regular season Wenatchee has outscored Vernon 13-6

The Vipers have yet to defeat Wenatchee at home

The Wilds last regular season win in Vernon was a 8-1 victory on Friday, February 26 2016

The Wild have yet to defeat Vernon at home

The Vipers last regular season win in Wenatchee was a 3-2 overtime victory on Saturday, November 14th 2015

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vernon Vipers are coming off a 6-3 victory over the Nanaimo Clippers Friday afternoon, wrap up the BCHL Showcase vs the Wenatchee Wild tonight. With the win Friday, the Vipers improve to 4-1 on the season. Tonight is the Vipers third game of a current six game road trip, their longest of the season. The Vipers & Wild met three times last season with Wenatchee winning two of the three games. These two teams will meet again November 25th in Wenatchee before the final meeting of the regular season February 10th in Vernon. The Vipers sit in 2nd place in the Interior Division tied in points with West Kelowna.

Vernon Vipers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=21

Steven Jandric (4-3-7) leads the team lead in goals with seven, while Steven Jandric (4-3-7) & Jimmy Lambert (2-5-7) share the team lead in points with seven each.

Vernon Vipers 2016-17 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 5
Wins: 4
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Overtime Wins: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 3-0-0-0
Road Record: 1-1-0-0
Overtime Record: 0-0
Record vs Interior Division: 2-1-0-0
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 2-0-0-0
When the Vipers score first: 3-0-0-0
When the opponents score first: 1-1-0-0
Leading after the 1st period: 3-0-0-0
Tied after the 1st period: 0-1-0-0
Trailing after the 1st period: 1-0-0-0
Leading after the 2nd period: 2-0-0-0
Tied after the 2nd period: 1-0-0-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 1-1-0-0
Out shooting opponents: 4-0-0-0
Out shot by opponents: 0-1-0-0
One goal games: 0-0-0-0
Goals for: 22
Goals against: 13
Standings: 2nd Place (Interior Division) Tied with West Kelowna
Win-loss streak: One game winning streak
Longest winning streak: Three game winning streak
Longest losing streak: One game losing streak

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Stapley (99)
Christian Cakebread (97)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Darren Rizzolo (98)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)

Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:

Charley Michalowski (96)
Odeen Tufto (97)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Callum Volpe (98)
Liam Finlay (97)
Joe Sacco (96)
Ben Butcher (95)
Brendan Barry (97)
Latrell Charleson (95)
Bo Pellah (95)
Mac Ferner (95)
Andrew Shortridge (95)

Vernon's home record vs Wenatchee last year:

0-1-0-0

Vernon's road record vs Wenatchee last year:

1-1-0-0 (One game played in Chilliwack-BCHL Showcase) 

Vernon's scoring leaders vs Wenatchee last year:

Odeen Tufto (1-2-3)
Jimmy Lambert (2-0-2)
Jagger Williamson (1-1-2)
Latrell Charleson (0-1-1)
Christian Cakebread (0-1-1)
Mitchell Oliver (0-1-1)
Bo Pellah (0-1-1)
Liam Finlay (0-1-1)
Steven Jandric (1-0-1)
Colton McCarthy (1-0-1)
Joe Sacco (0-1-1)
Mac Ferner (0-1-1)

Andrew Shortridge (1-1 Record)

Vernon has the leagues 2nd best powerplay

The Vipers have the leagues 6th best penalty kill

Let's take a look at the Wenatchee Wild:

The Wenatchee Wild are coming off a 5-4 overtime loss to the Powell River Kings Friday also finish the BCHL Showcase tonight vs Vernon. Tonight is the fifth and final game of a five game road trip, before the Wild have their home opener Friday vs Langley. Friday's overtime loss was the Wilds first loss of the season, as Wenatchee comes into tonight's game with a 3-0-1-0 record. This is the second time these two teams will face each other at the BCHL Showcase after Wenatchee's 3-2 victory over the Vipers at last years Showcase. The Wild sit atop the Mainland Division three points up on Chilliwack, Langley & Coquitlam. Wenatchee leads the league in goals with twenty seven.

Wenatchee Wild Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=35

Charlie Combs (5-3-8) leads the team lead in goals with five, while Brendan Harris (3-8-11) leads the team lead in points with eleven.

Wenatchee Wild Season Preview,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHxrwRfYMnc

Wenatchee Wild 2016-17 regular season stats:

Games Played: 4
Wins: 3
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 3-0-1-0
Goals for: 27
Goals against: 11
Standings: 1st Place (Mainland Division)
Streak: One game losing streak

Wenatchee Wild Returning Players:

Matthew Baker (97)
Dakota Raabe (97)
Troy Conzo (97)
Charlie Combs (96)
Colin Burston (97)
Brendan Harris (96)
Tyler Rockwell (96)
Austin Chavez (96)
Alex Bates (97)
Logan Miliken (97)
Garrett Nieto (98)

Wenatchee Wild departed and traded players from last years team:

Blake Christianson (95)
August Von Ungern (97)
Brandon Puricelli (98)
Joseph Drabin (95)
Daniel Nachbaur (95)
Kyle Stephan (95)
Mike Coyne (95)
Joshua Chamberlain (97)
Hunter Alden (98)
Aaron Murray (96)
Bryan Yoon (98)
Chase Perry (96)

Wenatchee's home record vs Vernon last year:

1-1-0-0 (One game played in Chilliwack-BCHL Showcase) 


Wenatchee's road record vs Vernon last year:

1-0-0-0

Wenatchee Wild scoring leaders vs Vernon last year:

Dakota Raabe (2-3-5)
Kyle Stephan (3-0-4)
Mike Coyne (1-3-4)
Tony Conzo (2-2-4)
Bryan Yoon (0-3-3)
Alex Bates (0-2-2)
Tyler Rockwell (1-1-2)
Auston Von Ungern (0-2-2)
Joseph Drabin (1-1-2)
Charlie Combs (1-1-2)
Brandon Puricelli (0-1-1)
Hunter Alden (1-0-1)
Matthew Baker (0-1-1)
Austin Chavez (0-1-1)
Blake Christiansen (1-0-1)
Colin Burston (0-1-1)
Brendan Harris (0-1-1)

Chase Perry (2-1 Record)

Wenatchee has the leagues 3rd best powerplay:

The Wild have the leagues 3rd best penalty kill

Brushett Scores Highlight Reel Goal In Win Over Nanaimo:

Newly acquired Vernon Vipers forward Ryan Brushett playing in his first game with the Vipers, scores his first career BCHL goal this afternoon to give the Vipers a 4-1 2nd period lead over Nanaimo at the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack. Vernon improves to 4-1 after a 6-3 victory over the Nanaimo Clippers.

http://syndicate.fasthockey.com/iframe/31f14c7f0e3e0b0f71ec8067531569e1/1280

BCHL Showcase: Vernon 6 Nanaimo 3

Scoring

1st Period:

1:18 NAN Adam Pilotte (1) ASST: Lucas Finner (2)
9:06 VER Steven Jandric (3) ASST: Mitchell Oliver (2), Jimmy Lambert (5)
10:46 VER Carter Stephenson (2) ASST: None

2nd Period:

5:21 VER Steven Jandric (4) ASST: Niko Karamanis (2), Michael Ufberg (4) (PP)
8:33 VER Ryan Brushett (1) ASST: Christian Cakebread (3)
10:15 NAN Matt Kowalski (1) ASST: Taylor Karel (1)
13:41 VER Michael Ufberg (1) ASST: Mitchell Oliver (3), Jagger Williamson (4) (PP)
14:38 NAN Ben Solin (3) ASST: Shawn Guison (2), Adam Pilotte (1)

3rd Period:

16:37 VER Carter Stephenson (3) ASST: Steven Jandric (3), Niko Karamanis (3) (PP)

Vernon outshot Nanaimo 36-33 Ty Taylor made 30 saves in the win, while Austin Roden made 30 saves in the loss.

BCHL Boxscore-Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7252

Vernon Vipers Game recap,

http://www.vipers.bc.ca/vipers-sink-clippers

Game Preview: BCHL Showcase: Nanaimo vs Vernon:

Nanaimo (3-1-0-0) @ Vernon (3-1-0-0) 1pm

Today is the first of three regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Nanaimo Clippers. These two teams split the season series last year 1-1

Last Game:

Saturday, September 17 West Kelowna defeated Vernon 3-1
Saturday, September 17 Nanaimo defeated Surrey 3-2

Next Game:

Saturday, September 24 (BCHL Showcase) Vernon vs Wenatchee
Saturday, September 24 (BCHL Showcase) Salmon Arm vs Nanaimo

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon is 3-2-1-2 at the Showcase

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon as the home team is 1-0-1-2 at the Showcase

Since the BCHL Showcase opened in 2012-13 Vernon as the road team is 2-1-0-1 at the Showcase

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 15-7-0-2 vs Nanaimo

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon has outscored Nanaimo 80-71

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 12-0-0-1 at home vs Nanaimo

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 3-7-0-1 in Nanaimo

The Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games vs Nanaimo

The Vipers are 9-0-0-1 in their last ten home games vs the Clippers

The Vipers are 3-6-0-1 in their last ten road games vs the Clippers

The Vipers last regular season win in Nanaimo was a 6-4 victory on Friday, January 18th 2013

The Clippers last regular season win at home vs Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Saturday, October 3rd 2015

Nanaimo's last regular season win in Vernon was a 4-3 double overtime victory on Friday, January 16th 2009

The Vipers last regular season win at home vs Nanaimo was a 6-2 victory on Friday, October 9th 2015

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vernon Vipers

The Vernon Vipers are coming off their first loss of the season, a 3-1 loss Saturday in West Kelowna open the 2016 BCHL Showcase this afternoon vs the Nanaimo Clippers. Today is the first of two games in Chilliwack this weekend at the Showcase as the Vipers face Wenatchee Saturday night. The Vipers released defenceman Callum Volpe after acquiring forward Ryan Brushett and defenceman Cooper Watson Friday. Today is the second of a current six game road trip, the Vipers longest of the season. Vernon sits 3rd in the Interior Division with a 3-1 record are a single point up on 4th place Merritt are just two points back of Penticton & West Kelowna who are tied in points for the Division lead. The Vipers split last season with the Clippers winning at home 6-2 but lost 5-2 in Nanaimo. The Vipers and Clippers will meet again October 2nd in Nanaimo before the Clippers will travel to Vernon January 28th.

Vernon Vipers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=21

Niko Karamanis (3-1-4) & Riley Brandt (3-1-4) share the team lead in goals with three each, while Jimmy Lambert (2-4-6) leads the team lead in points with six.

Vernon Vipers 2016-17 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 4
Wins: 3
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Overtime Wins: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 2-0-0-0
Road Record: 1-1-0-0
Overtime Record: 0-0
Record vs Interior Division: 2-1-0-0
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 1-0-0-0
When the Vipers score first: 3-0-0-0
When the opponents score first: 0-1-0-0
Leading after the 1st period: 2-0-0-0
Tied after the 1st period: 0-1-0-0
Trailing after the 1st period: 1-0-0-0
Leading after the 2nd period: 1-0-0-0
Tied after the 2nd period: 1-0-0-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 1-1-0-0
Out shooting opponents: 3-0-0-0
Out shot by opponents: 0-1-0-0
One goal games: 0-0-0-0
Goals for: 16
Goals against: 10
Standings: 1st Place (Interior Division)
Win-loss streak: One game losing streak
Longest winning streak: Three game winning streak
Longest losing streak: One game losing streak

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Stapley (99)
Christian Cakebread (97)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Darren Rizzolo (98)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)

Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:

Charley Michalowski (96)
Odeen Tufto (97)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Callum Volpe (98)
Liam Finlay (97)
Joe Sacco (96)
Ben Butcher (95)
Brendan Barry (97)
Latrell Charleson (95)
Bo Pellah (95)
Mac Ferner (95)
Andrew Shortridge (95)

Vernon's home record vs Nanaimo last year:

1-0-0-0

Vernon's road record vs Nanaimo last year:

0-1-0-0

Vernon's scoring leaders vs Nanaimo last year:

Brett Stapley (1-2-3)
Mac Ferner (0-3-3)
Joe Sacco (1-1-2)
Jagger Williamson (0-1-1)
Mitchell Oliver (0-1-1)
Riley Brandt (1-0-1)
Bo Pellah (0-1-1)
Odeen Tufto (1-0-1)
Jimmy Lambert (1-0-1)

Andrew Shortridge (1-1 Record)

Vernon has the leagues 2nd best powerplay

The Vipers have the leagues 8th best penalty kill

Let's take a look at the Nanaimo Clippers:

The defending Island Division Champion Nanaimo Clippers are coming off a 3-2 win over the visiting Surrey Eagles Saturday, open the 2016 BCHL Showcase today vs Vernon before finishing up the Showcase tomorrow morning vs Salmon Arm. This is the first time these two teams have met at the Showcase. Today is the first of a three game road trip for the Clippers who have played three of their first four games at home this season. Nanaimo sits 3rd in the Island Division are a point up on 4th place Alberni Valley are one point back of Cowichan and two points back of Division leading Victoria. The Clippers and Vipers come into today's game both with 3-1 records. Nanaimo has seven players returning from last year's hockey club.

Nanaimo Clippers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=23

Matt Creamer (2-1-3), Shawn Guison (2-1-3) & Ben Solin (2-2-4) share the team lead in goals with two, while Ben Solin (2-2-4) leads the team in points with four.

Clippers Head Coach-GM Mike Vandekamp coached three seasons in Vernon (2001-2004)

Nanaimo Clippers Season Preview,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKpuhMyWXR4

Nanaimo Clippers 2016-17 regular season stats:

Games Played: 4
Wins: 3
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 2-1-0-0
Road Record: 1-0-0-0
Goals for: 12
Goals against: 8
Standings: 2nd Place (Island Division)
Streak: Three game winning streak

Nanaimo Clippers Returning Players:

Matt Creamer (97)
Lucas Finner (97)
Spencer Hewson (96)
Matt Kowalski (99)
Taylor Karel (96)
Sean Buchanan (96)
Adam Pilotte (97)

Nanaimo Clippers departed and traded players from last years team:

Chris Dodero (96)
Sheldon Rempal (95)
Nolan Aibel (97)
Matthew Hoover (96)
Corey Renwick (95)
Gavin Gould (96)
Troy MacTavish (97)
Devin Brosseau (95)
Owen Hardy (99)
DJ Petruzzelli (97)
Charley Borek (96)
Christopher Smith (97)
Yanni Kladis (95)
Edwin Hookenson (95)
Will Reilly (97)
Kale Bennett (95)
Louis-Philippe Page (96)
Jordan Low (96)
Jonathan Reinhart (96)
Jakob Walter (99)
Evan Johnson (96)

Nanaimo's home record vs Vernon last year:

1-0-0-0

Nanaimo's road record vs Vernon last year:

0-1-0-0

Nanaimo Clippers scoring leaders vs Vernon last year:

Devin Brosseau (1-2-3)
Matthew Hoover (1-2-3)
Corey Renwick (1-2-3)
Yanni Kaldis (0-2-2)
Zach Court (1-1-2)
Will Reilly (1-0-1)
Lucas Finner (1-0-1)
Chris Dodero (1-0-1)
Kale Bennett (0-1-1)
Sheldon Rempal (0-1-1)

Jonathan Reinhart (1-0 Record)
Jakob Walter (0-1 Record)

Nanaimo has the leagues 16th best powerplay:

The Clippers have the leagues 5th best penalty kill

Vipers Add Two NCCA-Bound Players:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers add two NCCA-bound players

by  Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Sep 23, 2016

The Vernon Vipers just got a little meaner and older on the back end, while adding a healthy young centre, heading into the fifth B.C. Hockey League Bauer Showcase in Chilliwack.

The Vipers have signed 6-foot-3, 175-pound defenceman Cooper Watson, 20, and are awaiting a release from Quebec Hockey before adding 18-year-old forward Ryan Brushett of Verdun. Vernon released second-year blue liner Callum Volpe, an 18-year-old from Coquitlam.

Vernon head coach/GM Mark Ferner hopes to put both players on his roster for Saturday night's game against the powerful Wenatchee Wild at Prospera Centre. The Vipers face the Nanaimo Clippers Friday at 1 p.m. The Showcase draws scouts from dozens of NCAA and CIS schools, along with most NHL bird-dogs.

"Cooper has a scholarship with Michigan Tech (Huskies) and his brother Cliff is the captain there this year and his other brother, Carver (Tri-City USHL), is also going to Michigan Tech next year so he comes from good bloodlines," said Ferner, in Chilliwack watching a Showcase matinee game.

"Cooper is a little meaner than both his brothers. He's a big kid who is a stay-at-home, puck-moving d-man which is just what we needed."

Watson compiled 4-9-13 and 176 penalty minutes in two years with the Madison Capitols of the USHL. He rang up 25 points in 24 games with Appleton United as a 16-year-old Midget.

Brushett turned 18 in June and posted 2-8-10 with the Sioux Falls Stampede and Bloomington Thunder last season.

The 5-foot-11, 172-pound centre racked up 87 points in two Midget seasons with the Lac St-Louis Lions in Quebec.

"He had good numbers in Midget and he has a scholarship to Providence (Friars) so he's got some skill," said Ferner. "Lac St.-Louis is the Eastern equivalent of Shattuck St. Mary's (in Minnesota) so it's a good, quality program."

Brushell will give the Vipers another healthy forward since veterans Nick Rasovic and Brett Stapley are on injured reserve.

Second-year F Christian Cakebread and d-men Carter Stevenson and Mitch Oliver all missed practice this week due to illness. All three are expected to play against the Clippers.

Ferner said Ty Taylor will start in goal against Nanaimo, who has Vernon products Spencer Hewson, captain, and Matt Kowalski in their lineup.

"We've show the kids video on Nanaimo's tendencies on the penalty kill and power play and we know they're going to work hard and be physical," said Ferner. "They're off to a good start at 3-1."

The Vipers are also 3-1 and also know what they're getting against Wenatchee (3-0).

"Everybody down here (Chilliwack) says they're just as good as they were last year. They will play with pace so we'll have to be physical and slow them down."

Volpe became expendable since the Vipers had nine defencemen in camp. Volpe had 4-7-11 in 44 games as a rookie last season.

“It’s always tough releasing a young kid, but he took it well,” said Ferner. “It was a hockey decision.”

There West Kelowna Warriors stopped the Chilliwack Chiefs 5-2 in a rematch of last season’s league Fred Page Cup finals to open the Showcase Wednesday.

Quin Foreman notched a hat trick, including the winner. After a scoreless first period, the Norwood, Mass. product notched a pair in the second as West Kelowna built a 3-0 lead.

Foreman completed his hat trick into an empty net. New Warrior netminder Xavier Burghardt made 31 saves for his second win of the season.

Owen Sillinger, the son of former NHLer Mike Sillinger, pulled the hat trick Thursday afternoon as the Penticton Vees iced the Langley Rivermen 6-4. The Vees also have high-scoring Boston product Ty Amonte, son of retired NHLer Tony Amonte.

Foreman bagged a deuce as West Kelowna brushed back the Coquitlam Express 5-3.

Vipers Sign Brushett & Watson:

The Vernon Vipers have added 18 year old forward Ryan Brushett
and 20 year old defenceman Cooper Watson. Both players are listed on the Vipers roster. Defenceman Callum Volpe is no longer listed on the Vipers roster. With the additions of Brushett and Watson, the Vipers roster sits at 24 players.

Brushett listed at 5'11 and 175lbs played last season with the United States Hockey League (USHL) Sioux Falls Stampede and the Bloomington Thunder. In 25 games with the Stampede Brushett collected (1-goal-3-assists-4-points) and in 22 games with the Thunder picked up (1-goal-5-assists-6-points). Brushett is listed to be with the Thunder this season but has yet to play a game. Brushett was drafted 125th overall in Round 8 by the Sioux City Musketeers at the 2014 USHL Futures Draft was also drafted 97th overall in Round 6 by the Charlottetown Islanders at the 2014 QMJHL Entry Draft. Brushett has committed to Providence College for the 2017-18 season.

Ryan Brushett's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=251475

Ryan Brushett Interview,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4r_RIslnGi4

Thunder acquire Brushett from Sious Falls,

http://www.wjbc.com/2016/01/07/thunder-acquire-forward-brushett-from-sioux-falls/

Watson listed at 6'3 and 180lbs played last season with the United States Hockey League (USHL) Madison Capitols, playing in 57 games collected (2-goals-5-assists-7-points). Watson is listed to be with the Capitols this season but has yet to play a game. Watson has spent parts of the past three seasons in the USHL was drafted 132nd overall in Round 9 by the Waterloo Black Hawks at the 2013 USHL Entry Draft. Watson has committed to Michigan Tech University for the 2017-18 season.

Cooper Watson's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=248335

Cooper Watson fight,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIpCin47kTg

Cooper Watson chooses Michigan Tech,

http://www.sbncollegehockey.com/2013/11/25/5146792/cooper-watson-chooses-michigan-tech-wcha-college-hockey-recruiting-prospects-team-wisconsin